MANILA, Philippines — Chemrez Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of the Lao family’s D&L Industries Inc., has earned recognition for its contribution to advancing science, technology and innovation in the Philippines.
The company was honored at this year’s Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Balik Scientist Program Annual Convention, which promotes collaboration among academe, industry and government to turn scientific research into practical applications.
A product of this collaboration is an improved bio-based alternative to conventional petroleum-based paint additives, developed through Chemrez’s partnership with the DOST.
With strong potential in both local and export markets, the product is undergoing further evaluation for commercial-scale production.
“Through Chemrez Technologies, D&L Industries remains committed to advancing research and innovation by translating laboratory-scale discoveries into commercially viable specialty products,” D&L president and CEO Alvin Lao said.
“In collaboration with scientific experts, we continue to develop high-value coconut-based derivatives, specialty oleochemicals and specialty resins, maximizing the value of locally available resources and strengthening the competitiveness of Philippine industries,” he added.
As the country’s largest biodiesel manufacturer, Chemrez has also been at the forefront of the industry push for a higher coco-methyl ester (CME) blend in diesel fuel.
Under the law, all liquid fuels for motors and engines sold in the country should contain locally sourced biofuel components.
The government mandated a three-percent (B3) CME blend in 2024. The blend was supposed to gradually increase to B4 in 2025 and further to B5 this year, but the hike was suspended due to high costs of coconut oil.
Local biodiesel producers, however, maintained that biofuels could serve as a strategic buffer against disruptions in imported fuel supplies amid the global oil crisis.